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Predicting Public Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures: A Cross-Sectional Study in Hong Kong

Author

Listed:
  • Elsie Yan

    (Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Daniel W. L. Lai

    (Faculty of Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Vincent W. P. Lee

    (Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Haze K. L. Ng

    (Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

Abstract

Objectives: To effectively control the spread of COVID-19, the public’s adherence to relevant disease preventive measures (DPM) is critical. This study examined individuals’ adherence to various DPM and identified facilitators and barriers to adherence in a community sample in Hong Kong. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, telephone surveys were conducted over December 2020 and January 2021. Participants provided responses on their adherence to DPM as well as other psychosocial and cognitive factors via the phone. Results: Of the sample of 1255 Chinese adults (aged >18 years, 53% women), 94.4% wore face masks in public areas; 88.4% avoided touching their eyes, nose, and mouth; 82.1% performed hand hygiene practices; 81.5% used alcohol-based hand rubs; 74.6% abided by social distancing; and 39.7% tested for COVID-19 on a voluntary basis. Perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, cues to action, perceived acceptability, and disruptions to daily life related to COVID-19 were associated with individuals’ adherence to DPM. Conclusions: Adherence to DPM was strong in Hong Kong, and the adherence level could be predicted by various factors. It is vital to consider these factors in order to improve the public’s adherence.

Suggested Citation

  • Elsie Yan & Daniel W. L. Lai & Vincent W. P. Lee & Haze K. L. Ng, 2021. "Predicting Public Adherence to COVID-19 Preventive Measures: A Cross-Sectional Study in Hong Kong," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(23), pages 1-11, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:23:p:12403-:d:687970
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Sunhee Kim & Seoyong Kim, 2020. "Analysis of the Impact of Health Beliefs and Resource Factors on Preventive Behaviors against the COVID-19 Pandemic," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(22), pages 1-21, November.
    2. Fares Qeadan & Nana Akofua Mensah & Benjamin Tingey & Rona Bern & Tracy Rees & Sharon Talboys & Tejinder Pal Singh & Steven Lacey & Kimberley Shoaf, 2020. "What Protective Health Measures Are Americans Taking in Response to COVID-19? Results from the COVID Impact Survey," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(17), pages 1-18, August.
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    Cited by:

    1. Rujun Shen & Yunlong Guo & Shuaijie Wang & Ayikezi Tuerxun & Jiaqi He & Ye Bian, 2023. "Biodegradable Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes as Promising Candidates for the Development of Face Masks," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(2), pages 1-21, January.
    2. Elsie Yan & Rong-Wei Sun & Anise M. S. Wu & Daniel W. L. Lai & Vincent W. P. Lee, 2022. "The Impact of Pandemic-Related Life Stress on Internet Gaming: Social Cynicism and Gaming Motivation as Serial Mediators," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(14), pages 1-13, July.

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